How Lobotomies Work

In this fascinating episode of Stuff You Should Know, Josh and Chuck dive deep into the disturbing history of lobotomies, exploring how this controversial medical procedure went from experimental treatment to widespread practice in 1930s-1950s America. They trace the evolution from early drilling techniques to Dr. Walter Freeman's infamous "ice pick lobotomy" method, examining the shocking conditions in mental hospitals and the lack of scientific understanding that led to thousands of procedures being performed with devastating results. The hosts share compelling stories of real patients and discuss how this dark chapter in medical history finally came to an end with the introduction of psychiatric medications.